THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN MADEIRA – ATTRACTIONS GUIDE
This article is for those visiting Madeira to explore or seeking ideas for day trips during their holiday. If you're an avid hiker, Pico do Arieiro is a must-see as it offers a 3.5 hour trek to Pico Ruivo, the highest peak on the island. For those who prefer sightseeing, Funchal Old Town is the perfect destination with its promenade, historic attractions, and delicious food. Another popular attraction is the Funchal cable car ride which offers a quick and scenic way to access the key attractions of Monte, including the two botanical gardens. Whatever your interest, there's something for everyone in Madeira.
YOUR TRAVEL GUIDE OF MADEIRA
Over 320 points of interest entered into the Google Maps app. I've compiled a list of the top places to visit, including hiking trails, viewpoints, local towns, beaches, and more.
INTERACTIVE MAP OF MADEIRA ISLAND
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Top places in Madeira
PICO DO ARIEIRO is a must-see attraction for any Madeira itinerary. Known for its hiking trails, it is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Even those who prefer sightseeing will appreciate the stunning views from the third largest peak on the island, which stands at a towering 1,818m above sea level. On a clear day, the summit of Pico do Arieiro offers breathtaking views that are truly special.
FUNCHAL OLD TOWN is the heart of Madeira's capital, Funchal. The old town features a promenade overlooking the cruise port, narrow streets, small churches, a fortress, and other historical attractions. The best way to explore is by wandering on foot or taking a guided walking tour for an in-depth understanding of the key sites. Don't miss visiting Mercado dos Lavradores, a farmer's market with a variety of Madeira's tropical fruits, and Rua de Santa Maria, a street adorned with unique paintings and murals. Funchal Old Town also offers a wide selection of bakeries, Poncha bars, cafes, and restaurants to sample delicious food.
The FUNCHAL CABLE CAR RIDE is a popular attraction that offers a unique perspective of the city. The smooth-moving cable car transports groups of six from the promenade to the Monte region, providing easy access to the two botanical gardens in Monte. The roundtrip journey offers breathtaking views of Funchal below. Even those with a fear of heights can enjoy the ride as it is less intense compared to other cable car experiences on the island.
MONTE PALACE TROPICAL GARDEN is the garden, located at the top of the cable car ascent, offers a breathtaking tropical and Japanese-style landscape. Designed by José Berardo and opened in 1991, it blends Asian cultures with Madeira's unique plants, and African history. Visitors can explore the trails, cross river streams and admire the grand Japanese architecture of the garden. The garden also features a number of museum exhibits, a café with Madeiran wine tastings, and the Monte Palace itself at the center of the garden. It's one of the best places to visit in Madeira for those who appreciate a mix of nature and culture
FUNCHAL BOTANICAL GARDENS is located in Monte, just a short ride away from the Monte Palace Tropical Garden. The garden is dedicated to showcasing Madeira's diverse tropical plant species, and it is not covered by a canopy of trees, unlike Monte Palace Tropical Garden. The garden offers many viewpoints of the city, a terraced café with a view, and numerous walking trails. Visitors can leisurely explore the cacti, palm trees, bamboo, colorful flowers, and other species of flora and fauna. The garden is best enjoyed on a sunny day, and it's an ideal spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of Funchal.
BALCOES LEVADA is a popular hike and viewpoint located deep in the mountains of the island. It is situated above a small village and is one of the most popular Levada walks in Madeira because of its ease. The trail can be completed in about 70 minutes, making it suitable for all types of travellers. Unlike other Levada walks that can be longer and more challenging.
Not only is Balcoes easy to hike, but it also offers some of the most spectacular views. Drive to the small neighboring town and embark on a winding hike through the forest, passing by Levada streams, going along cliffs, and admiring the views of the valley below. The highlight of the trail is the viewpoint at the end of the trail, providing breathtaking views of Madeira's mountains from a raised platform.
CABO GIRAO CLIFF VIEW is easily accessible from the south coast and Funchal area. This viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the coastline, as it is the highest cape in Europe, standing at 580m. The custom-built viewing platform provides panoramic views of the shores and distant valleys. Visitors can take the challenge of stepping on the platform and look through its glass bottom for an extra thrill.
Cabo Girao is a great destination for those who appreciate scenic views. It's a 30-minute visit and can be combined with a visit to the neighboring town of Ponta do Sol or as part of a south-coast road trip. The best part, it's completely free to visit!
PORTO MONIZ is a picturesque town located on Madeira's northwest coastline, away from the tourist hub of Funchal. Despite its distance, it attracts many visitors due to its stunning coastal views and unique natural pools. These small pools of seawater have formed along the coastline, providing a refreshing spot to bathe and cool down. They are free to visit and can be enjoyed by all.
Visitors can stroll around the town, grab a coffee and a pastry at a café, and then take a dip in the natural pools. The sea temperature in Madeira is relatively warm year-round, but it's recommended to visit on a sunny day for a more pleasant experience. Porto Moniz is a must-see destination for those looking for a unique and refreshing experience on the coast of Madeira.